Artwork

Angels and Putti Flying with a Garland: Design for a Ceiling

Angels and Putti Flying with a Garland: Design for a Ceiling, by Charles de La Fosse, chalk, 1675
Angels and Putti Flying with a Garland: Design for a Ceiling, by Charles de La Fosse, chalk, 1675

Angels and Putti Flying with a Garland: Design for a Ceiling is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist Charles de La Fosse. It dates from 1675 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Angels and Putti Flying with a Garland: Design for a Ceiling is a drawing by Charles de La Fosse, created around 1675. It is a preparatory work for a ceiling decoration, held at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a lively scene of winged figures, including angels and putti, entwined in a floral garland, conveying a sense of dynamic movement.

Technique & Style

Executed in red and black chalk with touches of white chalk on light gray paper, the drawing features loose, expressive lines and a warm, smudged quality. A grid pattern in black chalk indicates the artist's intention to transfer the design to a larger scale.

History & Provenance

The drawing is a product of the late 17th century, a period characterized by dramatic and elaborate artistic expressions.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.